A Classic Apple Crisp Recipe
This simple apple crisp recipe is a timeless dessert, perfect for any occasion. It features a spiced apple filling topped with a buttery, crumbly oat topping, baked until golden and bubbly. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly comforting treat.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 6 medium apples (firm and tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tbsp granulated white sugar
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon (divided)
- 1 ½ tsp lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning and add flavor)
Oat Topping
- ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter, cubed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
- Make the apple filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples into ½-inch pieces. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the white sugar, ½ teaspoon of the cinnamon, and the lemon juice (if using). Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Create the crisp topping: In a separate medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers to “cut in” the cold, cubed butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
- Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the apple layer. Place the baking dish on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling at the edges.
- Cool and serve: Let the apple crisp cool for at least 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream.
Recipe Notes and Variations
- Yields: This recipe makes approximately 6–8 servings.
- Storage: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or use a microwave for about 30–60 seconds.
- Add Nuts: For a nutty crunch, add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the oat topping mixture before sprinkling it over the apples.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for a more complex spice flavor.
